12 Tips for Traveling Internationally with a Baby

Traveling with an infant is already an adventure, and taking that journey abroad is an even greater challenge.

Understanding the rules, researching in advance, and packing wisely can significantly influence your first international trip with a baby. Being informed allows you to utilize various family-friendly options, from bassinets on flights to expedited security and special infant fares.

This comprehensive guide covers everything from booking and necessary documents to travel insurance and managing jet lag, equipping you with all you need for an international journey with your baby.

Obtain your baby's passport

Before diving deep into your international travel plans, it's essential to obtain your baby's first passport.

While you're at it, ensure that every family member has a valid passport as well. Keep in mind that U.S. passports for children under 16 expire after five years, unlike adult passports which last for ten years. Also, check that no one's passport is approaching its expiration date; many countries require a validity of three to six months upon entry, meaning child passports are effectively valid for only about 4 1/2 years.

When applying for your baby's passport, here are the key steps to follow:

1. Obtain their birth certificate.
2. Determine where to apply.
3. Schedule an appointment. You will need to visit in person with your baby.
4. Take their passport photo. Capturing a good photo of your baby can be challenging. The requirements state that the baby should face the camera with a natural smile or neutral expression. If you can keep their eyes open, that's usually sufficient for their first passport photo. The background must be white, and the size should be 2 by 2 inches with no filters. Within this size, the baby's head must measure between 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm) from the chin to the top of the head. If you're having difficulty getting everything right, the ItsEasy App can assist in cropping and sizing the photo correctly.
5. Gather the necessary paperwork. Complete Form DS-11 and bring your baby's birth certificate along with photocopies of all documents. Include a couple of photos, valid IDs for both parents, photocopies of those IDs, and the fee (which can be paid by check). Current fees are $100 for the passport and $35 for processing.
6. Attend the appointment in person with both parents present. If only one parent can attend, fill out and bring parental consent form DS-3053 along with a copy.

Obtain Global Entry for your baby

If you already hold Global Entry, your family won't be able to use this service unless your little ones have it too. Start the application process for your baby now. Alternatively, if the whole family wishes to apply, do so together to simplify expiration dates and renewals for everyone.

Keep in mind that with TSA PreCheck, children aged 12 and under do not require their own number to pass through these expedited security lines with their parents. However, this does not apply to Global Entry, which is necessary for re-entering the U.S.

Consult your doctor

Speak with your pediatrician to determine when your baby is ready to fly.

To provide some insight, TPG consulted Dr. Jenny Yu, medical director at Healthline, to understand when it's generally safe for babies to travel. "While babies usually start to develop their immune system around 1 month, most pediatricians recommend waiting until they are between 3 to 6 months old before traveling," she noted. For premature infants, the waiting period might be slightly longer.

Additionally, when planning international travel, it's crucial to consider any extra vaccinations your baby may require, particularly if you're visiting developing countries. Begin by checking the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for vaccine recommendations for both adults and infants, then consult your pediatrician to determine what's best for your family and travel plans.

Other essential questions for your doctor include whether your baby can safely use sunblock or mosquito repellent and how to protect your baby and family from tropical or waterborne diseases, COVID-19, and other potential infections, which can vary significantly based on your destination.

Choose the right destination

Whether you're planning an adventurous trip to Asia, visiting relatives in Europe, escaping to the Caribbean, or embarking on an African safari, you can travel anywhere with a baby as long as you and your family feel at ease. Select a destination that brings you joy, rather than anxiety or stress about the journey and the experience with your baby.

Consider factors like the activities you wish to engage in, and whether the destination is family-friendly. Also, think about logistical elements such as language barriers, climate, and local transportation when determining if a particular destination is suitable for your family.

Purchase your tickets

Depending on your baby's age, you have several options for flying internationally with them. Here are a few to explore:

• Lap infant: If your baby is under 2 years old, they can travel without their own seat, sitting instead on the lap of a ticketed adult. For international flights, some airlines charge 10% to 30% of the adult fare or only the applicable taxes and fees for a lap infant, while others may not charge anything. This table outlines the costs by airline for a lap ticket for your baby. Be sure to check luggage policies when flying with a lap infant; most airlines permit a stroller and car seat to be checked for free. You may also have the option to check or carry additional baggage.
• Bassinet for lap infant: Many airlines offer bassinet options, particularly on larger international flights. Check to see if you can choose this option when booking or contact the airline for more details about securing a bassinet. Bassinets are generally free, but are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Request one as soon as you book to increase your chances of getting a seat with one available. Typically, bassinets have weight limits of 20 to 24 pounds, making them ideal for smaller babies and newborns.
• Extra seat with car seat or restraint for children aged 2 and up: If your child is older than 2 years, you must purchase a seat for them. Many airlines offer discounted fares for children. If the child weighs more than 44 pounds, no additional restraint is necessary in their seat. However, if they weigh less than 44 pounds, refer to the information on certified child restraints or car seats below.
• Additional seat with car seat or restraint for children under 2: If your baby is under 2 years old, you can still book them a separate seat. In fact, the Federal Aviation Administration recommends that children under 44 pounds use an FAA-approved harness (like the CARES harness) or a certified child restraint for safety during turbulence, takeoff, and landing. Ensure that your car seat has an FAA-approved sticker on it.

Keep in mind that car seat, bassinet, and harness options and their associated policies differ significantly between airlines and classes of service. For detailed information on these policies by airline, check out this article on 23 airline car seat and bassinet policies around the world.

When reserving seats for your family on an international flight, be aware that there are certain areas where kids and babies are not permitted to sit, such as exit rows. For instance, Malaysia Airlines prohibits babies from sitting in its first-class sections on A380 and 747 planes. Additionally, some international airlines, including AirAsia, Scoot, and IndiGo, feature kid-free and quiet zones that restrict families with babies and children below a certain age (typically 10 or 12) from sitting there.

If your baby is nearing 2 years old, it may be worthwhile to compare the cost of a lap ticket against purchasing a separate seat for them. Sometimes, the price difference is minimal, making the flight more comfortable for the entire family.

Prepare your documents, including visas and COVID-19 forms

Passports aren't the only documents you'll need for international travel today. Verify whether you and your baby require a visa to enter your destination country. If you're traveling solo without your partner, consider completing a Child Consent Form.

Ensure you have proof of vaccinations, complete any required health and entry forms, and take COVID-19 tests if necessary for entry into the country. Clarify whether your baby or children must wear masks during the flight and prepare accordingly. While babies aged 2 and above are required to wear masks on U.S. airlines, international airlines have different policies. For instance, Iberia mandates masks only for children aged 6 and older. Currently, British Airways allows passengers to decide on masking unless international law states otherwise. These regulations are likely to change frequently.

It's important to verify the necessary documents for your trip both when booking and right before traveling to make sure you have everything in order, as rules and regulations are constantly changing, especially during this pandemic travel era.

Familiarize yourself with luggage rules

Airlines have different rules regarding the amount of luggage you can bring when traveling internationally, particularly with lap infants or children who have their own seats. Most airlines permit you to check a stroller and/or car seat. Many also provide options for extra checked luggage, as well as a carry-on item for the baby.

For instance, British Airways typically permits lap infants and children aged 2 and older to bring a carry-on item and a checked bag, offering parents some leeway when packing essential items for babies. Similarly, Cathay Pacific allows lap infants to have two additional bags weighing up to 10 kilograms each on flights between most destinations.

If you're uncertain about the luggage policies, it's advisable to contact the airline before your trip to avoid any unexpected surprises or additional fees.

Be aware of the regulations regarding breast milk and formula

Thanks to the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act, all large and medium-sized airports in the U.S. now feature lockable, non-bathroom areas for pumping or nursing in every terminal, as well as at least one men’s and one women’s restroom equipped with changing tables. This may not be standard at international airports, so if you're worried, check what services are available at your destination's airport.

You should encounter no problems bringing breast milk or formula on your outbound journey from the U.S. since the usual Transportation Security Administration liquid rules do not apply to these specific liquids. As per the TSA, "reasonable quantities" are permitted, but you will need to present them separately during the screening process for testing by security personnel.

You can check regulations regarding what’s permitted when returning from your trip. For instance, the United Kingdom permits breast milk beyond security in containers up to 2,000 milliliters. Formula, milk, and bottled water for your baby are also allowed, but your baby must be present. In the European Union, breast milk and formula can be taken through security and on flights as long as your baby is traveling with you.

Your airline can also clarify these regulations. For example, Cathay Pacific allows breastfeeding during all flight phases, permits the use of an electric pump once electronic devices can be used, and allows suitably packed dry ice for refrigerating expressed milk, provided it's declared during check-in.

Some airlines state that a large breast pump may be classified as a medical device and may not count toward your carry-on limit, but these guidelines can be unclear. It's best to contact your airline for details and print the rules to have on hand in case you encounter issues during security or boarding.

If you're traveling from a remote location in an emerging country and can't find information about carrying breast milk, it's wise to have a backup plan, like bringing enough powdered formula for the flight or arranging to pump or breastfeed onboard.

If you wish to send your breast milk internationally, there are options available based on your destination, such as Maven Milk and Milk Stork.

Reserve your accommodations

When selecting a place to stay abroad, consider essential items for your baby, baby-friendly amenities, laundry facilities, and the ability to heat, cool, and store milk and formula. Opting for a vacation rental rather than a hotel might be beneficial if you require more space, a kitchen, and laundry options.

If your baby has started eating solid foods, ensure there are nearby restaurants or grocery stores where you can find what you need. Conducting some research before your trip can help you feel more confident and at ease when traveling with your baby, no matter where you decide to stay.

Pack wisely

Packing for a baby can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Ensure you have ample supplies for the flight, along with a little extra in case of delays or cancellations. For a comprehensive list of what to pack, refer to this article on how to pack -- and prepare -- for travel with a baby.

For long-haul flights, ensure you have everything needed for your baby to nap comfortably, including a lovey, blanket, pacifier, and more. Keep changes of clothes handy for everyone in case of spills, and pack enough layers to accommodate a potentially warm or cool cabin. A baby carrier can also be invaluable.

When preparing for an international trip, the most crucial items to remember are everyone’s passports, visas, and essential documents, along with anything critical that might not be available abroad. While diapers, wipes, and formula are widely accessible, the specific brand you prefer may not be. For remote destinations, like a safari in Africa, it's wise to pack enough supplies for your entire stay.

For instance, Enfamil, a well-known baby formula brand, is readily available throughout Europe and in the Caribbean and Latin America. However, it might be scarce in Africa or Asia, so do your research ahead of time.

If you're bringing devices that require charging, like a breast pump, baby monitor, or nightlight, remember to pack the necessary converters. Alternatively, you can rent baby gear at your destination instead of carrying everything. Many places also allow you to preorder diapers and wipes.

Consider obtaining travel insurance

Unexpected events can occur. While catching the flu overseas might not be a major concern for adults, having a sick baby can be frightening and stressful, particularly in an unfamiliar country. Having travel insurance that covers accidents, emergencies, and even COVID-19 can provide peace of mind and be a lifesaver if issues arise.

Prior to your trip, familiarize yourself with the locations of the nearest hospitals or healthcare facilities, as well as any international hospitals where the staff might speak English. Understand how to utilize your insurance, including what numbers to call or steps to take in case of an emergency. Also, check if any of your credit cards include travel insurance that could assist you and your family if needed.

Prepare for jet lag

Dealing with jet lag is tough. When traveling with a baby, it might feel even more challenging. However, there are measures you can take to make the experience less stressful, especially when crossing into significantly different time zones.

Firstly, allow a few days for everyone to acclimate, scheduling significant activities for later in the trip. Try to limit your baby's naps where you can; a long five-hour nap might prevent them from sleeping well at night.

Quickly adjust mealtimes, naptimes, and bedtimes to match the new time zone, ensuring exposure to daylight during the day and darkness at night, helping the whole family’s internal clocks reset. If the time difference is minimal, consider keeping your baby on the original time zone to reduce disruption, especially for shorter trips.

For additional strategies on managing jet lag while traveling with a baby, check out this guide on surviving jet lag with your baby.

Key takeaway

With proper planning, taking an international trip with a baby can be straightforward and lead to lifelong memories. By doing a bit of extra research, you'll have all the knowledge, preparations, and items needed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey abroad.